Matthew Burton announced as School Food Show & Forum keynote speaker
Matthew Burton is a headteacher best known for his role in the multi-award-winning Channel 4 documentary series, Educating Yorkshire. He has spent his entire teaching career at Thornhill Community Academy in Dewsbury, having joined in 2006 as a Newly Qualified Teacher of English.
He rose to fame in 2013 as an English teacher and assistant headteacher during the airing of Educating Yorkshire. He is most fondly remembered for a breakthrough moment with student Musharaf Asghar, who struggled with a severe stammer.
Using a technique inspired by the film The King’s Speech — having the student listen to music through headphones while speaking — he helped Musharaf successfully complete his English GCSE oral exam.
In November 2018, Burton was appointed headteacher of Thornhill Community Academy. Under his leadership, the school follows two primary rules for students and staff - be nice, work hard. He has been a vocal advocate for the power of teaching to change lives, regardless of a child's background.
The programme and features at The School Food People Forum will address the disparities in school meals funding across the nations and explore strategies to ensure that all children and young people receive the very best school food to support their growth and learning.
This is a rare opportunity to hear firsthand insights from a celebrated educator who combines passion, experience, and a focus on student welfare. What else is happening on day one:
- Three informative workshops
- Heats one and two of the School Chef of the Year (SCOTY) final
- Grab 'N' Go Challenge final
- Lunch & exhibition viewing Halls 1 & 2
- Eva Humphries, The Wholefood Warrior, demo
- Amber Francis showcase demo
- Chair’s welcome from Brad Pearce
- Hear from The School Food People ambassadors Nadim & Tanya Ednan-Laperouse
For the first time all sessions on day one of the School Food Show & Forum are open to both visitors and delegates. Register for free here. Please note to access Forum sessions on day two you will need to sign up as a delegate.